Khet Bachao Abhiyan (Save the Farmland Campaign) Awareness Programme at Terahalli Betta, Kolar District by Team 16

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 160 stakeholders, including 80 women farmers, 60 men farmers, and 20 members of the transgender community, reflecting the inclusive nature of the campaign and its commitment to reaching diverse sections of society. The programme was graced by Shri Kotiganahalli Ramaiah, renowned Kannada theatre writer and director, and Dr. Akkai Padmashali, social activist, founder of Ondede Trust, and member of the Advisory Committee of the Supreme Court of India.

The technical sessions focused on sustainable agriculture and advanced horticultural technologies for improving farm productivity and resource conservation. Dr. Radha T.K. delivered a session on Soil Health Management, highlighting the importance of maintaining soil fertility through integrated nutrient management and bio-intensive farming approaches. Dr. B. Balakrishna presented advanced horticultural technologies developed by ICAR-IIHR for enhancing productivity, profitability, and sustainability in farming systems. Dr. Jayanthi Mala B.R. delivered a session on eco-friendly crop protection strategies with special emphasis on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices in horticultural crops. An interactive discussion session facilitated by Dr. Ramya H.R. and Dr. Shivananda V. Hongal, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK, Kolar, provided an opportunity for farmers to discuss field-level challenges and obtain scientific solutions from experts.

Shri Manjunath, Assistant Director of Agriculture (ADA), Kolar District, addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of social equity, sustainable agriculture, and the role of horticultural innovations in strengthening rural livelihoods. During the programme, the magazine “Buddhideepa Living Times” was formally released by Shri Kotiganahalli Ramaiah and his team. In his address, Shri Kotiganahalli Ramaiah highlighted the need to conserve agricultural land, protect rural livelihoods, and strengthen community participation for sustainable development. Dr. Akkai Padmashali emphasized the importance of social inclusion, dignity, and empowerment of marginalized communities through equitable access to sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The programme concluded with the distribution of seeds, planting materials, agricultural inputs, and technology kits to participating farmers to facilitate field-level adoption of recommended practices. The event received wide coverage from local newspapers and Doordarshan Kendra (DDK), Bengaluru.

The programme served as an effective platform for strengthening the linkage between scientific institutions and farming communities, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and reinforcing the campaign message: “Let us conserve soil for future generations and promote sustainable agriculture.”

A glimpse of the programme can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/1xUbWbqhB9I(link is external)